This case ("Living at all costs is a flaw of our Western society," March 3) isn't about hope anymore. Though it is one of the most powerful emotions mankind can feel, that doesn't mean it is the best thing to focus on. After 15 years of struggling, it seems better for all those involved to resign their hope to sorrow and move on; despite what remains. There are two sides to this case -- Michael Schiavo and Terri's parents, the Schindlers.

Through this long debate, each has made dire allegations against the other, clouding the real issue and obscuring the facts. When you strip all this confusion away, however, you are left with one person: Terri Schiavo.

Here are the facts of Terri's condition, facts any doctor has yet to refute: On the tragic day 15 years ago, cardiac arrest damaged Te rri's cerebral cortex, which continued to deteriorate as time passed, leaving Terri without her higher brain functions.

Initially, Michael Schiavo and the Schindlers were allied, caring for her; but as it became apparent -- barring a miracle -- that Terri would forever be terribly brain-damaged and nourished through a tube, Michael Schiavo took the necessary legal preparations to allow her to die. In a Florida courtroom, the Schindlers and Michael Schiavo -- both well represented -- brought witnesses and experts to plead their respective cases. The judge and jury, in the end, decided Terri Schiavo would not have wanted to be kept alive through a feeding tube, granting Michael Schiavo the power, as guardian, to have the tube removed. The ruling has been upheld despite appeals to higher court systems and even Jeb Bush.

It now seems time that Terri's wish, confirmed by Michael and others, be finally carried out.